Overview
An aircraft engine experienced a failure during cruise flight at approximately 2000 feet. The event was characterized by a loud bang followed by oil covering the windscreen. The pilot executed a forced landing into a swampy, marshy area with the landing gear retracted.
Incident Narrative
While in cruise flight, the engine suddenly quit with a bang. Oil immediately covered the windscreen, impairing visibility. The pilot chose a suitable area and performed a forced landing with the landing gear retracted, touching down in swampy, marshy terrain.
Examination Findings
A subsequent examination of the engine by a mechanic revealed that the No. 5 and No. 6 connecting rods had separated. The damage was determined to be the result of a rod cap bolt failure.
Engine History
At the time of the incident, the engine had accumulated 1851 total hours. A top overhaul had been completed approximately 875 hours prior to the event.